Far North police are continuing to disrupt and prevent knife crime, with more than 100 weapons seized during proactive patrols under Jack’s Law.
Jack’s Law allows police to use handheld metal detectors to scan people and their belongings to detect knives and other weapons in any public space or entertainment venue.
If you are caught carrying a knife in a public place, you risk a large fine and/or a term of imprisonment.
Since 18 July 2025, 8902 people have been scanned, and 101 weapons have been seized.
A 23-year-old Palm Cove man was allegedly located with knuckle dusterson Lake Street on 21 March.
He was charged with one count of unlawful possession of a category M weapon and appeared in the Cairns Magistrates Court on 9 April.
A 16-year-old Cairns North boy was charged with one count of possession of a knife in a public place after he was allegedly found with a knife on Lake Street on 21 November 2025.
Jack’s Law was introduced in response to the tragic stabbing death of 17-year-old Jack Beasley in 2019.
It allows police officers to utilise a metal detecting wand in operations in public areas including Safe Night Precincts, shopping centres, public transit hubs and on public transport.
Scans are quick, averaging a minute or two and require no physical contact by police.
By scanning for, detecting, and removing dangerous weapons from public places, police aim to reduce the harm these weapons cause in the community while educating the public on the risks of unlawfully carrying a weapon.
Acting Chief Superintendent Paul Hart said the Far North District will continue to take proactive measures to ensure no member of the community is harmed by dangerous weapons.
“We know how important the Cairns CBD is to business owners, locals and tourists, who want to enjoy the great restaurants, shops and nightlife it has to offer,” Acting Chief Superintendent Hart said.
“Jack’s Law isn’t about invading your privacy on a night out, it’s about making sure dangerous weapons don’t cause lifelong trauma for victims, their families, and the wider community.
“Everyone deserves to enjoy our public spaces safely and without fear.”
0.25 – 1.04 – QP2600540026: A 23-year-old Palm Cove man was allegedly located with knuckle dusterson Lake Street on 21 March.He was charged with one count of unlawful possession of a category M weapon and appeared in the Cairns Magistrates Court on 9 April.
1.04 – 1.28 – QP2501405464: A 16-year-old Cairns North boy was charged with one count of possession of a knife in a public place after he was allegedly found with a knife on Lake Street on 21 November, 2025.
1.28 – end – various weapons seized as part of proactive patrols under Jack’s Law.
